Pinoys celebrate Independence Day in Kuwait

by Maxxy Santiago, ABS-CBN Middle East News Bureau

MANILA, Philippines - A week-long celebration of the Philippines' 114th Independence Day kicked off in Kuwait with a Barrio Fiesta gathering over the weekend.

The event, organized by the Philippine embassy, was held at the embassy grounds in Faiha, where a tent was installed due to the scorching heat.

Philippine Ambassador to Kuwait Shulan Primavera welcomed everyone, including members of the diplomatic corps.

Various stalls showcasing handmade jewelry and accessories were set up inside the huge tent.

Various Filipino food and some fruit carvings by Filipino artist Romano Roman were on display.

Traditional parlor games like Maria Went to Town and Paluan ng Palayok were held during the event.

Attendees also availed of a free medical check-up.

Some participants also had the chance to showcase their singing prowess in a videoke singing competition. A Pinoy band also entertained the audience.

A flag raising ceremony was led by Ambassador Primavera at the Philippine embassy during the Philippine Independence Day Celebration Tuesday. It was followed by a brief program.

The Ambassador greeted members of the Filipino community as he traced the rich history of the Philippines.

Embassy staff Cathy Gison read President Benigno's Aquino's message, followed by the reading of the message of Vice President Jejomar Binay by Vice Consul Rea Oreta, reading of message of Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario by Vice Consul Sheila Monedero, and the reading of the message of Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz by Labor Attache David Des Dicang.

The event was capped by a ceremonial cake-cutting and breakfast buffet.

One of the highlights of the Independence Day celebration in Kuwait is a Filipino Community night that will be on Friday in the Al Hashemi Ballroom at the Radisson Blu Hotel.